Production Team Leader

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing at pace, meaning we can offer a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfilment and career growth. We currently employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, and our specialisations include software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

Role Overview

The Production Team Leader in Electrical Assembly Manufacturing within Saab Sensor Systems plays a pivotal role in leading a team of production professionals to ensure the efficient and timely production of high-quality electrical components and systems for defence applications. Reporting to the Production Supervisor, this role combines leadership, production control, and personnel management to meet strict quality and safety standards while contributing to the overall success of the company. This is a hands-on role where the team leader is expected to contribute to the department's actual output, as well as lead the team.

This role presents a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team in the Test/Inspection of essential electrical components for defence applications. The Team Leader will be instrumental in upholding the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency while contributing to the success of mission-critical objectives. Additionally, the Team Leader will be responsible for performing any other duties as assigned by the Production Supervisor.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Team Management:

• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of production technicians & operators.
• Foster a culture of accountability, quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback to team members to ensure they are meeting their goals.
• Promote a positive work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

2. Production Control:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the electrical assembly production line.
• Ensure production schedules are met while maintaining high product quality.
• Monitor production processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions to optimise efficiency.
• Collaborate with production planning and logistics teams to optimise production flow.

3. Quality Assurance:

• Enforce strict adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure product quality and consistency.
• Implement and document quality control measures and process improvements to ensure optimal performance.
• Collaborate with the Quality Manager to address quality issues and implement corrective actions.

4. Safety and Compliance:

• Maintain a safe work environment by adhering to and enforcing safety protocols and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards, especially in the defence sector.
• Investigate and report safety incidents and near-misses and implement preventive measures.

5. Continuous Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for process optimisation, cost reduction, and efficiency improvements.
• Lead or participate in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to implement process enhancements.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and take corrective actions as needed.

6. Reporting and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate production records, including work orders, quality reports, and personnel records.
• Generate and analyse production reports to assess team and process performance.

Required Skills & qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in electrical assembly.
• Strong knowledge of production control, quality assurance, and safety protocols.
• Excellent team management and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with industry-specific regulations and standards.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in using manufacturing software and tools.
• Strong communication and decision-making skills.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and a safety-first mindset.

By submitting an application to Saab UK you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities that may include but are not limited to: Baseline Personnel Security checks, National Security Vetting, reference checks, verification of working rights and in all circumstances preferred candidates will be placed through a security interview.